Senior Thursday
We love being surrounded by family, especially when we are celebrating a milestone. We invite friends and family over, from the very young to the very old. Our homes will be filled with people who normally aren't part of the routine. If your children are older or grown, you aren't used to toddlers being around. So you take care to protect them from obvious dangers like electrical cords or outlets.
So too, should you protect the other extreme—the aging senior. For the senior, the dangers are different. They know better than to eat the plants or stick their hand in an outlet. But they don't always see other dangers, especially those that can cause falls. It is up to you to prepare your house for their arrival. Here are some things you should do to protect against accidents.
• Pick up all throw rugs. They are tripping hazards.
• Provide normal height seating for meals—no bar stools or picnic tables.
• Provide a chair in the conversation area that is easy to sit in and get up from.
• Be aware of dietary restrictions such as low sodium, diabetic or gluten-free.
• Hold activities on the main level of the home so they don't have to up/down stairs.
• If stairs are necessary, make sure the railing is secure.
• Watch young children around them when they are walking.
• Keep pets locked up so they don't jump up and knock them over, or get under their feet and trip them.
• Don't hand them anything to hold that is hot (coffee) or heavy (plate of food). Carry it for them and set it down.
Being aware of these hazards will protect your elderly guests. How do you keep seniors safe in your home?
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
The Importance of Backing Up Computer Files
Tips for Tuesday
We all hear about the importance of backing up computer files, but like other disasters, many think it will never happen to us. "My computer will never crash." "I will only replace it when I want to, not when I need to." Unfortunately, some of us learn the hard way.
I am happy to say, though, that when my laptop froze up last week, I wasn't worried. Not that I welcomed the expense and time it would take to replace it. But I knew all my files were safe with Carbonite.com, an online storage site.
Sure enough, when it came time to restore my 83,000 files, the only ones that didn't back up were the 300 that were directly related to a software program I no longer use. I am writing this blog from my new laptop—seamlessly.
So what are your options for backing up your files? First, there are online sites like Carbonite, that charge a monthly fee for backing up your files. The program works in the background while you are working with your documents. The first backup may take several days, depending on the number of files you have. And they do not back up program files. But you can always re-load programs with the CDs. Some companies include Carbonite, IDrive, MozyHome and Norton. Prices vary, and some are even free for low levels of storage. Files are available anywhere you have access to the internet.
Another option for backing up files is on an external hard drive. These are handy for portability. You can take them with you when you travel for work, for example. But they do not work in the background. You have to manually connect them to your computer and start the back-up process yourself. They do save you money in the long run, because you won't have a monthly or annual fee.
If you don't have a large amount of files to back up, a flash drive would work well for you. Like the hard drive, these are portable, but everything is manual, and they might not hold all your files.
If you use a hard drive or flash drive, back up your files every week or month on the same day. If there are important documents you don't want to lose between backups, email them to yourself. They will be stored on your mail server until the backup is run. It is also a good way to have a duplicate copy.
Finally, when using a hard drive or flash drive, create a second backup and give it to a family member or put it in a safe deposit box. This will guarantee its safety in the event of an emergency or disaster in your home.
We all hear about the importance of backing up computer files, but like other disasters, many think it will never happen to us. "My computer will never crash." "I will only replace it when I want to, not when I need to." Unfortunately, some of us learn the hard way.
I am happy to say, though, that when my laptop froze up last week, I wasn't worried. Not that I welcomed the expense and time it would take to replace it. But I knew all my files were safe with Carbonite.com, an online storage site.
Sure enough, when it came time to restore my 83,000 files, the only ones that didn't back up were the 300 that were directly related to a software program I no longer use. I am writing this blog from my new laptop—seamlessly.
So what are your options for backing up your files? First, there are online sites like Carbonite, that charge a monthly fee for backing up your files. The program works in the background while you are working with your documents. The first backup may take several days, depending on the number of files you have. And they do not back up program files. But you can always re-load programs with the CDs. Some companies include Carbonite, IDrive, MozyHome and Norton. Prices vary, and some are even free for low levels of storage. Files are available anywhere you have access to the internet.
Another option for backing up files is on an external hard drive. These are handy for portability. You can take them with you when you travel for work, for example. But they do not work in the background. You have to manually connect them to your computer and start the back-up process yourself. They do save you money in the long run, because you won't have a monthly or annual fee.
If you don't have a large amount of files to back up, a flash drive would work well for you. Like the hard drive, these are portable, but everything is manual, and they might not hold all your files.
If you use a hard drive or flash drive, back up your files every week or month on the same day. If there are important documents you don't want to lose between backups, email them to yourself. They will be stored on your mail server until the backup is run. It is also a good way to have a duplicate copy.
Finally, when using a hard drive or flash drive, create a second backup and give it to a family member or put it in a safe deposit box. This will guarantee its safety in the event of an emergency or disaster in your home.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Tipping the Movers
Moving on Monday
People have different opinions on whether or not to tip movers. Many feel that the move itself is expensive, so why should they pay even more money for the move? Others feel that the movers work hard and should be rewarded for a job well done.
In reality, the movers don't walk away with much money for themselves at the end of the day. Most of it goes to the moving company. But movers, like waitresses and hairdressers, are in the service industry, and therefore should be tipped.
Ultimately, it is your decision. If you do decide to tip, there are some guidelines to consider. Tips aren't determined as a percentage of the bill. They are decided on the number of hours worked. For a short day (4-5 hours), then $10/person is acceptable. For an 8-hour day, $20/person is acceptable. For extremely long days, $40/person would be a good benchmark.
If you decide to tip the movers, give each of them the tip individually, and not to the foreman. It shows your appreciation for each of them, and also avoids unscrupulous foremen pocketing all the money.
Instead of a monetary tip, providing lunch and beverages for the movers is acceptable. Check food preferences with them before purchasing. Cold beverages (water or energy drinks) should be available throughout the day.
Supplying both lunch and a monetary tip is, of course, acceptable, and shows appreciation for a job well done.
People have different opinions on whether or not to tip movers. Many feel that the move itself is expensive, so why should they pay even more money for the move? Others feel that the movers work hard and should be rewarded for a job well done.
In reality, the movers don't walk away with much money for themselves at the end of the day. Most of it goes to the moving company. But movers, like waitresses and hairdressers, are in the service industry, and therefore should be tipped.
Ultimately, it is your decision. If you do decide to tip, there are some guidelines to consider. Tips aren't determined as a percentage of the bill. They are decided on the number of hours worked. For a short day (4-5 hours), then $10/person is acceptable. For an 8-hour day, $20/person is acceptable. For extremely long days, $40/person would be a good benchmark.
If you decide to tip the movers, give each of them the tip individually, and not to the foreman. It shows your appreciation for each of them, and also avoids unscrupulous foremen pocketing all the money.
Instead of a monetary tip, providing lunch and beverages for the movers is acceptable. Check food preferences with them before purchasing. Cold beverages (water or energy drinks) should be available throughout the day.
Supplying both lunch and a monetary tip is, of course, acceptable, and shows appreciation for a job well done.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Creative Uses for a Niche
Tips for Tuesday
Some houses have interesting architetural features like columns, crown molding or fireplaces. Some of these features are useful. Others, like a niche, are pleasing to the eye fomr the outside, but serve little function inside.
So what's a homeowner to do with the space that's often not much larger than a closet?
Do you need storage? Install a rod for hanging clothes or shelves for totes. Then put a curtain across the front to hide the items from view. If the space has a window, cover it with a transluscent fabric or drapery to let light in, but hide the contents from the outside.
Do you need an office? Install a desktop, add a file cabinet underneath, shelving above, and you have yourself a small space for paying bills or writing out your grocery list. You may have to run electricity to the space, and a hole/grommet in the desktop so you can have a light and laptop there for you.
Do you like to read? Build a bench, add a cushion and pillows, and the natural light form the window will give you a serene place to read and relax.
Do you need a place to hide toys? Build a bench in the space, add a hinged lid (with safety clasps), or doors on the front. The toys will have a home and your kids will have a place to sit and read.
Do you have an unusual collection to display? One that won't get ruined by sunlight? Install shelves across the window and use them to display items like colored glass bottles or prisms.
Is there limited space in the bedroom? Push a twin bed into the space and use the window and draperies as a makeshift headboard.
If you don't want to build anything permanent in the space, then place a comfy chair and lamp in the nook for reading, place a small desk for doing homework, put in a small bookcase for open storage, or use the space for a small dresser.
What creative uses have you come up with for a niche?
Some houses have interesting architetural features like columns, crown molding or fireplaces. Some of these features are useful. Others, like a niche, are pleasing to the eye fomr the outside, but serve little function inside.
So what's a homeowner to do with the space that's often not much larger than a closet?
Do you need storage? Install a rod for hanging clothes or shelves for totes. Then put a curtain across the front to hide the items from view. If the space has a window, cover it with a transluscent fabric or drapery to let light in, but hide the contents from the outside.
Do you need an office? Install a desktop, add a file cabinet underneath, shelving above, and you have yourself a small space for paying bills or writing out your grocery list. You may have to run electricity to the space, and a hole/grommet in the desktop so you can have a light and laptop there for you.
Do you like to read? Build a bench, add a cushion and pillows, and the natural light form the window will give you a serene place to read and relax.
Do you need a place to hide toys? Build a bench in the space, add a hinged lid (with safety clasps), or doors on the front. The toys will have a home and your kids will have a place to sit and read.
Do you have an unusual collection to display? One that won't get ruined by sunlight? Install shelves across the window and use them to display items like colored glass bottles or prisms.
Is there limited space in the bedroom? Push a twin bed into the space and use the window and draperies as a makeshift headboard.
If you don't want to build anything permanent in the space, then place a comfy chair and lamp in the nook for reading, place a small desk for doing homework, put in a small bookcase for open storage, or use the space for a small dresser.
What creative uses have you come up with for a niche?
Monday, March 5, 2012
Moving With Pets
Moving On Monday
Moving is stressful. Add in pets, and it can be a disaster. That is, unless you are prepared for the day. You have packed and scheduled the move, and planned the layout in your new home. But did you plan for taking care of your pets?
Here are some things you can do to help you and your furry kids through the few days surrounding the move.
• Arrange for boarding for your cats and dogs. They should not be underfoot. Don't plan on keeping them in the yard or garage "out of the way" because the odds are high that they could slip out during the chaos.
• Have all your pets up to date on their medications and vaccinations.
• If you are moving to another town and changing veterinarians, ask for a copy of your pets' records to bring with you.
• If you are driving with your pets, have a crate or cage for each one, along with a leash in the car.
• If you need to stay in a motel for a cross-country move, look for facilities that are pet-friendly.
• Have plenty of water, food and toys in the car for a long drive.
• Pets should be wearing their tags/IDs at all times.
• If you are moving to another state, check laws for entry of animals into the state. Some states have quarantine laws.
• Give your pets time to get accustomed to the new home.
• If your pet has an ID chip, be sure to update your address and phone number with the company.
Moving is stressful. Add in pets, and it can be a disaster. That is, unless you are prepared for the day. You have packed and scheduled the move, and planned the layout in your new home. But did you plan for taking care of your pets?
Here are some things you can do to help you and your furry kids through the few days surrounding the move.
• Arrange for boarding for your cats and dogs. They should not be underfoot. Don't plan on keeping them in the yard or garage "out of the way" because the odds are high that they could slip out during the chaos.
• Have all your pets up to date on their medications and vaccinations.
• If you are moving to another town and changing veterinarians, ask for a copy of your pets' records to bring with you.
• If you are driving with your pets, have a crate or cage for each one, along with a leash in the car.
• If you need to stay in a motel for a cross-country move, look for facilities that are pet-friendly.
• Have plenty of water, food and toys in the car for a long drive.
• Pets should be wearing their tags/IDs at all times.
• If you are moving to another state, check laws for entry of animals into the state. Some states have quarantine laws.
• Give your pets time to get accustomed to the new home.
• If your pet has an ID chip, be sure to update your address and phone number with the company.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Stretching Your Wardrobe
Frugal Friday
Clothing can be very expensive, especially if you want it to last for a while. With the cost of utilities and gas rising, the money you have to spend on clothing is decreasing. But with wise decisions, you can have a nice wardrobe that will last for years to come.
• Don't buy into fads and fashion. Keep to the classics that never go out of style, such as that little black dress or black heels.
• Keep your wardrobe to two or three basic colors. Use cool or warm colors that coordinate based on your skin tone. Add in the neutrals--black, beige and white to round out the selection.
• Use accessories to change your look, rather than more expensive shirts or pants. A colorful scarf, earrings or belt can create a whole new look.
• Buy good quality items/fabrics that will last many years.
• Use light layers under expensive sweaters or jackets to absorb odors and oils. You won't have to clean your clothes as often.
• Launder your items inside-out to preserve color.
• Store your off-season clothes in temperature-controlled areas. Do not store them in humid or damp areas, especially if they are in plastic bins, which retain moisture.
Clothing can be very expensive, especially if you want it to last for a while. With the cost of utilities and gas rising, the money you have to spend on clothing is decreasing. But with wise decisions, you can have a nice wardrobe that will last for years to come.
• Don't buy into fads and fashion. Keep to the classics that never go out of style, such as that little black dress or black heels.
• Keep your wardrobe to two or three basic colors. Use cool or warm colors that coordinate based on your skin tone. Add in the neutrals--black, beige and white to round out the selection.
• Use accessories to change your look, rather than more expensive shirts or pants. A colorful scarf, earrings or belt can create a whole new look.
• Buy good quality items/fabrics that will last many years.
• Use light layers under expensive sweaters or jackets to absorb odors and oils. You won't have to clean your clothes as often.
• Launder your items inside-out to preserve color.
• Store your off-season clothes in temperature-controlled areas. Do not store them in humid or damp areas, especially if they are in plastic bins, which retain moisture.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Creating an Emergency Hospital Bag
Senior Thursday
As we age, the possibility of having to visit the Emergency Room increases. It may be from an accident, an illness or a fall. Regardless of the reason, the visit can be very stressful. When this happens, the patient often forgets important information, such as phone numbers, medication doses and allergies. Therefore, having a bag or tote to bring with in case of just such an emergency may save your life.
To avoid confusion, pack a tote or bag with vital information. You should include the following:
• List of prescription medications, their strength and doses. Include the prescribing physician's name and phone number.
• List of physicians under whose care you have been. Include phone numbers and addresses.
• Names and phone numbers of family members and friends to notify.
• List of non-prescription medications, such as vitamins and supplements, along with strength and dosage.
• List of medical conditions, history of surgeries and hospitalizations, allergies and vitals (height, weight, blood group).
• Personal identification--name, address, phone number.
• Change of clothing and toiletries.
Because you may not be home when an emergency happens, save a copy of your medical information on a document and store it on a flash drive. Keep this flash drive with you whenever you go out. Mark it as containing your medical information.
As we age, the possibility of having to visit the Emergency Room increases. It may be from an accident, an illness or a fall. Regardless of the reason, the visit can be very stressful. When this happens, the patient often forgets important information, such as phone numbers, medication doses and allergies. Therefore, having a bag or tote to bring with in case of just such an emergency may save your life.
To avoid confusion, pack a tote or bag with vital information. You should include the following:
• List of prescription medications, their strength and doses. Include the prescribing physician's name and phone number.
• List of physicians under whose care you have been. Include phone numbers and addresses.
• Names and phone numbers of family members and friends to notify.
• List of non-prescription medications, such as vitamins and supplements, along with strength and dosage.
• List of medical conditions, history of surgeries and hospitalizations, allergies and vitals (height, weight, blood group).
• Personal identification--name, address, phone number.
• Change of clothing and toiletries.
Because you may not be home when an emergency happens, save a copy of your medical information on a document and store it on a flash drive. Keep this flash drive with you whenever you go out. Mark it as containing your medical information.
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